PA1P: Apply for probate by post if there is a will
Form PA1P is the paper application to HM Courts and Tribunals Service for a grant of probate where the person who died left a will, giving you the legal right to deal with their estate.
This is the genuine HMCTS PDF, unmodified. Source: HMCTS official page.
What is PA1P?
PA1P is completed by an executor named in the will, or by a beneficiary where there are no executors able or willing to act. The grant of probate proves your authority, and financial institutions normally insist on seeing it before they release funds or transfer property.
The form covers the deceased's details, the will and any codicils, the executors and how each of them is dealing with the appointment, inheritance tax information, and a statement of truth. A checklist at the front lists what to enclose, including the original will, and the notes explain when a separate form is needed, for example where an executor is renouncing or appointing an attorney.
Who files PA1P?
- Executors named in the will of someone who has died
- Beneficiaries applying where the will names no executor able to act
- Attorneys applying on behalf of an executor who cannot act personally
- Anyone who cannot use the online probate service and has to apply on paper
How to fill out PA1P
- Read the checklist at the start of the form and gather the original will, the death certificate and your estate valuations.
- Complete any inheritance tax reporting to HMRC first, then wait the period stated in the guidance before applying.
- Fill in the deceased, will and executor sections, following the numbered notes where a question does not obviously apply.
- Every applicant signs the statement of truth, and you enclose a cheque or postal order payable to HMCTS for the application fee plus copies.
- Post the original signed form with the original will, supporting documents and payment to HMCTS Probate, PO Box 12625, Harlow, CM20 9QE.
Quick fill PA1P on this page
Prefer to see the form itself while you type? Open PA1P in the editor to fill it on the actual pages, add a signature, and download.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to send the original will?
Yes. A paper probate application must include the original will and any codicils. Do not staple, pin or remove anything from the will, and keep your own copy before you send it.
What does probate cost?
There is a probate application fee and a further fee for each official copy of the grant. Fees are reviewed periodically, so check the current probate fees on gov.uk and see whether you can get help with fees.
Should I apply online instead?
The online probate service handles most straightforward citizen applications and is generally faster. Use the paper PA1P where the online service does not cover your circumstances.